In a major step toward creating a more sustainable Texas, H-E-B has joined the How2Recycle program to help strengthen and reinforce recycling efforts across the Lone Star State.
As part of the How2Recycle program, H-E-B will help customers by taking the guesswork out of recycling, joining industry leaders in a new straightforward labeling system that reduces confusion about how, what, and where to recycle.
The clear, easy-to-read labels let customers know if a product’s packaging can be recycled, which parts are recyclable, and importantly, how to prepare material to increase recycling effectiveness.
Through the program, H-E-B says they will be able to track and measure its recyclable packaging, promote customer recycling efforts, and help improve availability and quality of recyclable materials.
The How2Recycle labels are already on hundreds of H-E-B branded products, including H-E-B, Hill Country Fare, H-E-B Select Ingredients, H-E-B Organics, and Central Market.
By year’s end, the labels will be on more than 1,500 H-E-B branded items, in addition to the national brands on shelves carrying the How2Recycle labels.
H-E-B also will launch an educational effort that includes sharing recycling tips via social media and in-store signage.
Additionally, H-E-B will update plastic recycling bins already available at stores, making them more visible, compelling and easy to read to encourage customers to bring in plastics that cannot be recycled at home.
Along with strengthening its recycling efforts, H-E-B says they will continue to find ways to reduce plastic in product packaging and other uses. Last year, H-E-B eliminated plastic straws from H-E-B restaurants and switched to biodegradable straws.
In celebration of Earth Day, H-E-B will also give away 200,000 reusable bags this year to help reduce plastic waste.
On April 22, beginning at 1 p.m. customers who visit any H-E-B in Texas can get their complimentary Earth Day bag while supplies last.
The bag, designed by Julia Rojas, a 12-year H-E-B Partner from San Antonio, is made from recycled plastic bottles. Since 2008, H-E-B has given customers more than two million reusable bags in commemoration of Earth Day.
To invite customers to join in their sustainability efforts, H-E-B launched its annual donation campaign to benefit EarthShare of Texas, a nonprofit that supports more than 70 conservation groups.
Through May 25, customers can donate $1, $3 or $5 online at heb.com or in store at checkout.
All proceeds collected from the effort will benefit the nonprofit organization.
Over the past decade, H-E-B shoppers have donated more than $1 million through the campaign.
